CZ 457 Varmint .22 WMR Walnut 5rd Rifle
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The CZ 457 Varmint .22 WMR Walnut 5rd Rifle is a heavy-barreled, optic-ready bolt-action rifle designed for stable, precise shooting with magnum rimfire cartridges.
What is the CZ 457 Varmint .22 WMR used for?
This rifle is engineered for precise pest control and extended-range .22 plinking where wind deflection matters. The 1:16 twist rate stabilizes standard .22 WMR jacketed bullets effectively out to 150 yards, and the 5-round magazine capacity is ideal for controlled varmint hunting scenarios where follow-up shots are calculated, not rapid-fired.
How does the CZ 457 Varmint compare to the Stevens 334?
The CZ 457 excels in mechanical precision due to its cold hammer-forged barrel and adjustable trigger, making it superior for sub-MOA 10-shot groups at 100 yards with quality ammo, while the cost-effective Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 is better for a hunter prioritizing a budget-friendly, hard-hitting centerfire option for larger game.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.8 lb (3.1 kg) unloaded, with a 21-inch (533 mm) heavy-profile barrel and an overall length of 39.8 inches (1011 mm). The extra mass in the barrel, approximately 0.85 inches in diameter at the muzzle, provides exceptional resistance to harmonic vibration and heat.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is a poor choice for those seeking a lightweight, handy carbine for quick offhand shots like our Stevens 555 Sporting Compact. The heavy barrel and walnut stock prioritize benchrest stability over mobility, and the lack of iron sights requires an immediate optics purchase and mounting.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action, the walnut stock, one 5-round detachable metal magazine, the factory trigger adjustment tool, and a basic owner's manual. CZ does not include scope rings, a cleaning kit, or a case.
Is the CZ 457 Varmint worth it at $740.99?
Yes, if your priority is a mechanically precise, suppressor-ready .22 WMR platform built for durability and repeatability. The price reflects the cold hammer-forged barrel process, the fully adjustable single-stage trigger, and the figured Turkish walnut stock, which is a tangible upgrade over the synthetic stocks common on rifles in this caliber at this price point.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 6.8 lb weight and 21-inch heavy barrel create a stable, almost recoil-free platform for precise shooting.
- Fully adjustable factory trigger - can be set from 2.5 lb to 4.5 lb with provided tool for a clean, crisp break.
- Cold hammer-forged barrel provides superior wear resistance and consistent accuracy for over 10,000 rounds.
Trade-offs
- No iron sights - requires immediate purchase and mounting of an optic, adding at least $150+ to initial cost.
- 5-round magazine capacity is limited compared to some .22 LR rifles; slower reloads for sustained varmint control.
- Walnut stock is sensitive to humidity changes; requires more maintenance than synthetic stocks to prevent warping.
Key attributes
| upc | 806703023410 |
| manufacturer | CZ-USA |
| manufacturer part number | 02341 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Black Nitride |
| barrel length | 20.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 49.5 |
| magazine included | 1 x 5-Round |
| model | 457 |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 8.4 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 8.55 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with CZ 457 aftermarket triggers?
- Yes, the receiver accepts most aftermarket triggers designed for the CZ 457 series, including the popular Timney model. Drop-in replacement typically requires less than 15 minutes with basic gunsmithing tools, though you must re-check and potentially readjust pull weight after installation.
- Does it fit a standard .22 WMR suppressor?
- Yes, the 1/2"-28 UNF muzzle threads (under the factory-installed protective cap) are the industry standard for .22 caliber suppressors. Ensure your chosen suppressor, like a SIG SRD22X or a Dead Air Mask, is rated for .22 WMR's higher pressure.
- How long does assembly/take-down take?
- From the box to a functional rifle with a scope mounted, plan for 30-45 minutes. This includes removing the action from the stock, mounting scope rings to the 11mm dovetail with a torque wrench (15-20 in/lb), bore-sighting, and re-seating the action.
- Does this work with CZ 455 magazines?
- No. The CZ 457 uses a redesigned magazine and bottom metal. Attempting to use a CZ 455 magazine will cause feed failures. You must purchase CZ 457-specific magazines in .22 WMR, which typically cost $28-$35 each from retailers like MidwayUSA.